R Massey & Son (Woodville) Ltd

R Massey & Son (Woodville) Ltd is a fourth-generation family business based in Swadlincote. Founded in 1947 by Reginald Massey, the business began with Reginald who was a painter and decorator decanting five-gallon drums of paint into treacle tins and selling the treacle tins to the public. Within five years, the Masseys DIY store had been created, selling tools, ironmongery, paints and many other household items.

The current Masseys store was built in 2014 using the most energy-efficient methods available. Over time, there have been new green initiatives developed and the current team wished to further improve the overall decarbonisation of the business and increase energy efficiency.

Why engage with the Green Entrepreneurs Programme (GEP)?

Following a decarbonisation audit, it was highlighted that the most prominent and effective measure for Masseys to introduce was solar panels on the roof of the store.

Masseys were successful in applying for GEP grant funding of £20,000 in November 2022 which enabled them to purchase a 72kWp solar panel system, reducing the company’s grid use by 30% and saving over 1 ton in carbon emissions per annum.

What has been the impact of GEP?

Without the GEP funding, jobs could have been at risk and the payback period of the solar installation would have been greatly increased.

Manager, Andy Massey commented:

“The reduced payback period made the investment far more attractive and without it, our utilities bills were set to increase substantially threatening at least one person’s job”.

The solar project was a catalyst for other green measures and in 2024, Masseys were successful in securing funding for a second project installing LED lighting throughout the store, which further reduced their energy use by 20%.

Without the introduction of LED lighting, Masseys estimated their lighting electricity costs would be over £8k per year higher which would seriously impact the business. The combined cost savings and carbon reductions not only help to secure the business for the future but also contribute to their ongoing efforts to minimise their impact on the environment.

Andy Massey stated:

“Both projects far exceeded our expectations and we are very grateful to GEP and the University of Derby for their support”.